Russian Scientists Create Laser Device for Early Detection of Cavities

A team in St. Petersburg has developed a safe, compact diagnostic tool that uses lasers instead of X-rays to detect tooth decay at its earliest stages. The device promises faster, safer, and more accessible dental care.

St. Petersburg State Electrotechnical University has unveiled an innovative development for dentistry: a compact device for express diagnosis of cavities in their early stages. Unlike traditional X-ray machines, the new device uses safe semiconductor lasers, enabling examinations directly in the dentist’s chair without health risks, according to the university’s press service.

The device emits light at wavelengths of 405 and 635 nanometers, causing tooth tissues to fluoresce. Special sensors analyze the response, while software determines the presence and extent of decay. The technology has already been successfully tested on extracted teeth, demonstrating high diagnostic accuracy.

Key advantages of the innovation include safety (the laser radiation has no restrictions for use, including with children and pregnant women), speed (results are available instantly without lengthy processing), and compactness (the device is easy to integrate into a dentist’s office).

In the future, the device is expected to be introduced into dental clinics across Russia.